Dinner

Firecracker Shrimp: Crispy, Spicy, and Irresistible Recipe

ByMarina Montclair December 28, 2025December 28, 2025

Introduction

Firecracker Shrimp is a crispy, spicy delight that will quickly become your favorite appetizer or snack. This recipe combines golden fried shrimp with a tangy, creamy sauce that packs just the right amount of heat. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, it’s sure to impress at any gathering.

A close-up view of a white bowl filled with cooked shrimp covered in a thick, shiny reddish-orange sauce. The shrimp are curled and coated evenly with the sauce, which has a textured look from small bits of seasoning. Chopped green onions are sprinkled all over the shrimp, adding bright green spots. White sesame seeds are scattered on top, giving a slight crunch texture. The shrimp are piled high, almost filling the bowl. The photo is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 large egg
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
1 tablespoon sriracha (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Vegetable oil (for frying)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the seasoned flour coating.
Step 2: In a separate bowl, beat the egg until smooth.
Step 3: Place the panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl for breading.
Step 4: Coat each shrimp by dipping first into the seasoned flour mixture, then the beaten egg, and finally press into the panko breadcrumbs. Set the coated shrimp aside on a plate.
Step 5: Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot, approximately 350°F (175°C).
Step 6: Fry the shrimp in batches for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
Step 7: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and lime juice to make the dipping sauce.
Step 8: Serve the crispy shrimp hot with the dipping sauce on the side or drizzled on top, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor and color.

Tips & Variations

For an extra kick, increase the amount of sriracha or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture.
Try using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version of this dish.
If you prefer baked shrimp, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes instead of frying.
Garnish with sliced green onions or a squeeze of fresh lime for added freshness.

Storage

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the coating crunchy.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a white bowl filled with golden-orange cooked shrimp coated in a sticky, glossy glaze, giving them a slightly caramelized look. The shrimp are topped with small white sesame seeds scattered evenly and chopped green herbs adding fresh green pops all around. The shrimp curves and textures are clear, with the sauce making them shine and catch the light. The bowl sits against a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely, pat them dry with paper towels, and proceed with the recipe. Removing excess moisture helps the breading stick better and fry crispier.

How spicy is the firecracker sauce?

The sauce has a moderate heat level thanks to the sriracha and sweet chili sauce. You can easily adjust the spiciness by using less or more sriracha according to your taste.